This book is the definitive guide to a planet in critical transition. How humankind uses Earth's vast resources today will determine with health and ultimately the survival of our complex ecosphere for the decades and centuries to come. With its wealth of data, vivid graphics and authoritative text by the leading thinkers on these crucial environmental, political and social issues, GAIA is both an important resource and an impassioned challenge for anyone concerned with the health and welfare of our world.